By Eva Fydrych
Founder of Susan's Crochet Shop
Photos courtesy of Susan Romander and Unsplash / Model: Charlotte Dickson
Our latest guest in "8 Questions With..." interview series is Seattle-based designer Susan Romander.
Susan has been using crocheting both as therapy and a way to turn her hobby into a profitable business. Looking at her pretty handmade creations, we are sure she is on the right way!
In today's interview, we asked Susan to share her main challenges and inspirations as a designer, as well as her favourite winter trends, personal style secrets, and more.
Enjoy our interview and don't forget to connect with Susan on her social media platforms (all links under the article). Although make sure to visit Susan's Etsy store where you can find beautiful and practical items that can serve as perfect gifts for this holiday season and beyond.
FASHION STUDIO: What inspired you to start your Crochet Shop?
SUSAN: I started my crochet shop after I developed a chronic illness and had to leave my 24-year career as a surgical dental assistant. I have crocheted since I was a little girl and would make simple things for gifts, but once I couldn't work any longer, I began to challenge myself. I learned to read patterns and projects that were harder. I was mainly making things for my family and friends. It was my daughter that said that I should sell things on Etsy.
Pocket Shawl (Photo courtesy of Susan Romander / Model: Charlotte Dickson)
Pocket Shawl (Photo courtesy of Susan Romander / Model: Charlotte Dickson)
FASHION STUDIO: What was the main challenge and how did you overcome it?
SUSAN: The main challenge is still getting my Etsy shop out there on the social media platforms. It's work that I spend as much time doing than I do making things. It's not something that I have overcome, but it's something that I continue to do to promote my work (Susan's Crochet Shop on Etsy, @susanscrochetshop on Instagram).
FASHION STUDIO: Who do you design for? How would you describe your target customer?
SUSAN: I make warm and cozy things for Babies to Adults (Men & Women) such as beanies, shawls, blankets, gloves, cocoons for newborn babies to name a few and also sweaters for fur babies. I make things for the home; kitchen towels, coasters and more. My target customers are fashions for Ladies.
FASHION STUDIO: Which fall/winter trends would you recommend?
SUSAN: Things that can be added to outfits to tie it all together; beanies, scarves, fingerless gloves, boot cuffs and this year the very popular pocket shawls.
Textured Beanie & faux fur pom-pom - various colors available (Photo courtesy of Susan Romander)
FASHION STUDIO: How would you encourage other people to follow their passion? Why do you think it's important?
SUSAN: If I knew that a family member or friend had a passion about something, I would encourage them to pursue that passion; by sending information to them on that subject or just talking to them about doing it. Life is so short, it's so important to do the things that are fulfilling to us to make us feel accomplished and whole.
FASHION STUDIO: What happiness means to you?
SUSAN: Prior to a chronic illness my happiness was my work, playing softball, kayaking, Bocce ball with friends.... Since 2012, it's been learning to accept not being able to do those things. Happiness now is my family & friends that I stay in touch with that understand that major shift in my life. It's about enjoying the little things in life, literally; video calls with my three grandkids, recently reading bedtime stories with them, my dog Lucy, my cat Suzy Q, gardening, walks, working on my crochet business, photography. Staying busy and positive.
Heart Earrings (Photo courtesy of Susan Romander) Click to enlarge
Hanging Rainbow / Home Decor (Photo courtesy of Susan Romander)
6-Gold pin with crocheted hearts (Photo courtesy of Susan Romander)
FASHION STUDIO: Where do you see your business in the future? What would you like to achieve?
SUSAN: My business is more of a hobby, but I am hopeful that one day, my business will grow and it will be something that will be more lucrative. I work towards that goal daily.
FASHION STUDIO: Thank you for sharing your thoughts and good luck with all your plans!
Susan Romander (Photos courtesy of the designer)
Connect with Susan:
Etsy: SusansCrochetShop
Instagram: @susanscrochetshop
Twitter: @SusanRomander
LinkedIn: SusansCrochetShop
Pic Fair: Susan Romander
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Read more: History of Crochet
SusansCrochetShop is amazing. Such great quality and creativity. I am lucky enough to enjoy items made by this incredible woman often and look forward to the next treasure I receive both for my self and my two daughters. Great job!
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